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The Ginkgo, is the world's oldest living species of tree,
the sole survivor of the Ginkgolaceae family whose fossil
records date back to when dinosaurs roamed the earth,
around 125-220 million years ago. Today Ginkgo Biloba is
known as the living fossil. It was, in fact, thought to
be extinct in the wild until rediscovered in the 17th
century in eastern China.
Great bonsai tree potential. Easy to grow and maintain
because of its adaptability and resistance. If left to
grow naturally, the Maidenhair tree will grow from about
80 to 100 feet tall. These trees can live a long time,
some over 600 years.
The bark is delicate, be careful. Pruning scars do not
heal, so avoid making large scars. Protect well against
frost, its roots have a high moisture content, and are
easily destroyed by frost when exposed to the elements in
a shallow bonsai container.
They have characteristic fan-shaped leaves that are
usually bi-lobed and leathery. Leaves in Spring are a
light green, but will suddenly turn a pure dazzling
yellow in the Fall, remaining for awhile on the tree,
then suddenly dropping virtually all off at the same time.
Ginkgos will take about 20 years of growth before they
start to reproduce. The flowers of the trees will appear
in Spring, with male trees producing cones and females
the fruits.
Hardiness zones 3-8, (-10°C/15°F, -37°C/-35°F) in
Winter. Ginkgo tolerates most soil, including compacted,
and alkaline. Needs a fair amount of water during growth.
Its main requirement is adequate drainage. Prefers full
sun, but in very sunny areas partly shadow is better.
Maximum light is necessary for good Autumn color. Very
young trees may need some shelter in Midsummer.
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